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Standing Order Details

S.O.110 Matters of Public Importance

Matters of Public Importance

110. The procedure for Matters of Public Importance is as follows:
      1. The matter, which must be definite, shall be handed in writing to the Speaker no later than 12.00 noon on days when the Houses discusses a matter of public importance and immediately published.
      2. The Speaker, in the event that more than one matter is submitted, shall determine which matter is of the greatest public importance.
      3. At least 30 minutes prior to the time for Question Time "
          1. the Premier, the Leader of the Opposition, the responsible Minister in the House, Members submitting matters and the Independent Members shall be informed in writing by the Speaker of the matter determined by the Speaker to be discussed.
          2. the Speaker, by placing a notice on notice boards, shall inform Members of the matter.
      4. If the Speaker decides that any matter proposed is in order it shall be announced to the House by the Speaker.
      5. As provided in the routine of business the Speaker shall call the Member concerned to proceed with the matter. The matter cannot be amended.
      6. The following time limit shall apply:
          • Mover - 7 minutes
          • Member next speaking - 7 minutes
          • One other Member - 5 minutes
          • Reply - 5 minutes
          • Total - 24 minutes
      7. At the conclusion of the discussion no question shall be put.
      8. There shall be no dissent from the ruling of the Speaker in relation to the operation of this Standing Order.
      9. A division on any question or quorum call shall not be permitted during Matters of Public Importance.

amended 3 July 2009 and 8 October 2015